Inner West Council spends big on private security guard to monitor monthly meetings

RATEPAYERS are funding an army of burly security guards to ensure Inner West Council meetings do not get out of control.

Security guards monitor protestors outside September’s council meeting in Ashfield. Pic Jenny Evans

RATEPAYERS are funding an army of burly security guards to ensure Inner West Council meetings do not get out of control.

Five months after angry protesters brought the inaugural meeting to a close, the council is taking no risks with security during its public meetings held in Ashfield.

At each meeting 10 security guards keep watch.

Security guards escort residents from the fayer to the council chambers. Pic Jenny Evans

While angry scenes from the council’s May meeting have not been repeated, protesters have vowed to disrupt each gathering.

Residents must also register at a front desk, prior to being escorted by guards in lifts to the chamber.

The council would not say how much it is spending on the measures, but based on the minimum award for security guards, the cost is at least $1300 per month.

Anne Picot, who attended last week’s peaceful demonstration outside the chambers, described the measures as “extreme”.

“Any attendees should entirely be within their right to attend without the presence of security guards,” she said.

A council spokesman said the security measures were on the advice of police.

He said meetings would remain in Ashfield for the rest of the year but live streaming will also be introduced.